Many Leeds United fans were baffled this summer when a large part of last season’s attack was shipped out only to bring in two free agents. The Whites added Lukas Nmecha and Dominic Calvert-Lewin as their new striking options this summer.
Last season, Joel Piroe finished as top scorer in the Championship, but there were question marks on if he would adapt to the Premier League. Fans were excited when linked to names like Callum Wilson and Rodrigo Muniz, but Leeds ended up with Nmecha and Calvert-Lewin.
Daniel Farke’s side started the season with just one open play goal from their first four league games. But the German coach has tinkered with the team, and the results are showing.
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Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Credit: Imago
Despite fixing the attack, the main thing remains for Leeds; goals. The Whites have been creating more since the Fulham game last month, but cannot seem to find the back of the net consistently. One of the main culprits is Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has missed five big chances this season. NBA star Larry Nance Jr, who is a Leeds fan and a part of the investors in the club, says he understands the striker’s goal drought:
“We played four games this preseason, and I was like two for 16 from three [point attempts] throughout those four games. I couldn’t hit the ocean standing in a boat.” he said speaking on the MIB podcast.
“It just came back to stay in your routine, right? Like water will always find its level. I’m a firm believer in that.
“So as long as he continues his runs, continues the work rate, continues to press from the back, and leads us, leads our line, I do feel confident.
“Obviously, we’ve seen him do it at the highest levels in the Premier League and, you know, he seems to be in great shape right now. So I’ve got, I’ve got faith in our guy.”
Dominic Calvert-Lewin is still doing his job outside the goals
Daniel Farke has hit home the point this season that he is fine even if Calvert-Lewin is not scoring. The striker provides a key focal point for the team, and he uses his physicality and hold up play to set up his teammates. He may miss a lot of chances, but it is only a matter of time before he hits a hot streak.
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